On September 13, the Jing-Jin-Ji region (Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei) welcomed its first fully panoramic sightseeing tourist train, named “Starry Night·Yanzhao,” which officially began operations. The train was developed by CTG Investment as part of efforts to implement the national strategy of integrating transportation with tourism.
The train is themed around the Beijing Central Axis, a historic north-south line through the heart of the capital that was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2024. Throughout the carriages, window decals, electronic display screens, and cultural creative merchandise all incorporate iconic landmarks and cultural elements associated with the Central Axis, immersing passengers in the history and heritage of this renowned urban axis from the moment they board.
In conjunction with the train’s launch, the operator has rolled out a “Ticket + X” series of Central Axis-themed products, offering travelers bundled experiences that combine rail travel with guided tours, cultural activities, and other attractions along the route. This initiative is intended to enrich the cultural tourism experience and promote coordinated development of tourism across the region.
The debut of the “Starry Night·Yanzhao” marks a significant step in advancing the integration of transportation and tourism in the Jing-Jin-Ji area. By transforming a railway journey into a immersive cultural experience, the project aims to draw more visitors to explore the rich historical and cultural resources spanning Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei, while fostering deeper tourism collaboration among the three localities.
The launch reflects a broader national push to diversify tourism offerings and create innovative travel experiences that blend mobility with cultural discovery. Industry observers note that such themed train services could serve as a model for similar initiatives in other regions seeking to boost local tourism through creative transportation solutions.
